Northland School Division

Northland School Division (NSD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Owens as Director of Student Engagement, Attendance and Completion, effective August 9, 2021. Owens joins the Northland family after serving 10 years as Principal at Peace River High School (Peace River School Division). 

“Mark has extensive training and experience in teaching methodology, effective instruction and professional learning,” says Dr. Nancy Spencer-Poitras, Superintendent of Schools. “Mr. Owens has a proven track record with respect to leadership, collaborating with others, developing relationships with First Nations and Métis communities and using data and feedback from students, parents and staff to drive school improvement. We feel very confident that Mark is a great fit for this role and will assist NSD in meeting priorities and outcomes to support learning, leadership and relationship building.”

“I have always enjoyed the challenges of education, working with students, staff, parents and the community to create the opportunity for all students to be successful,” said Owens. “I bring experience, critical thinking, problem solving, positive energy and a willingness to learn to any role that I have taken. I am excited to be part of the Northland team.”

Owens has gained much knowledge of historical, social, economic and political implications of treaties and agreements with First Nations and Métis and the legacy of residential schools. Mark has worked with Elders and community members to learn how to better support First Nation and Métis students. He has taken it upon himself to support Truth and Reconciliation by taking part in events like the school and staff sweat lodge, the Peace River Interagency Pow Wow (Graduation Ceremony) and the Peace River School Division Hand Games Tournament. 

Mark’s leadership experience is supported with specific training he has taken and serving on various committees. He has completed the Teaching and Leadership Quality standards for First Nations and Métis education and served on the Northwest Alberta High School Redesign Committee. 

Mark’s education background includes a Master of Education degree from the University of Calgary (U of C) in Education Leadership, a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta (U of A) in Elementary Education and a Bachelor of Physical Education from U of A.